Utility cricketer Vijay Shankar has announced his retirement from domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League. In a heartfelt message posted on his official Instagram account, Vijay said: “I have decided to retire from playing domestic cricket and IPL to pursue new opportunities and play more cricket.”
“Thankful to BCCI and the Indian Cricket Team – many learnings, countless memories and various inspirations! Representing the country will be my highest badge of honour. Bowling the last over at India’s 500th ODI at Nagpur and my first ball first wicket at the 2019 world cup are moments I will hold onto forever,” he wrote.
— Vijay Shankar (@vijayshankar260) May 22, 2026
The all-rounder thanked all his coaches, teammates and the teams from club cricket onwards in aan elaborate message before calling out the hate he had recently received online. The biggest catalyst for the hate was Shankar’s inclusion in the 2019 ICC World Cup squad ahead of Ambati Rayudu. Chief selector MSK Prasad famously referred to Shankar as a “three-dimensional” player – capable of batting, bowling, and fielding. As a consequence of the tag, Shankar was heavily mocked on social media whenever he failed to perform, as fans felt he was undeserving of a spot over specialist batters.
“I have faced unreal hate and negativity. Let me take this opportunity to let you know that I chose to ignore and move forward. If I can do that, anyone can! Think positive and work hard. Cricket has taught me life. Cricket is my life,” Vijay wrote.
